2 Corinthians 1:1-11
For just a little review, Paul wrote the first letter to the Corinthian church (1 Corinthians) primarily to deal with divisions in the church. Apparently, they did not take his advice so he visited them for a second time. The problems were still not solved so he wrote them this 2nd letter (2 Corinthians).
One of the problems seemed to be that some false teachers in Corinth were saying that Paul was not a genuine apostle so he begins this letter my affirming that he was "chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus." v. 1 He mentions that the letter is also from Timothy, Paul's younger companion in the ministry, who had also ministered in Corinth.
I think it's fair to say that the theme of the next two paragraphs is "comfort," as Paul uses that word multiple times. "All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others." vv. 3-4 Remember that being comforted by God doesn't mean that He takes the trouble away. For reasons only God fully understands, we are sometimes asked to endure various trials and troubles. In fact, some people face life-long suffering. But He does promise us mercy and comfort! And that endurance and comfort we receive from God can be a testimony and help to others who are suffering. vv. 3-7
Then Paul goes on to use his and Timothy's own troubles as an example. He is practicing what he preaches! "We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it. In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead. And he did rescue us from mortal danger, and he will rescue us again...Then many people will give thanks because God has graciously answered so many prayers for our safety." vv. 8-11
One of the lessons we need to learn from EVERY trial is the one Paul and Timothy learned and that is to stop relying on ourselves and rely only on God!
Psalm 34
It's so interesting to me how sometimes the New Testament passage we look at has a parallel message in the Psalms. Today is one of those days. David wrote this Psalm to remind us that God will hear all who call on Him. This psalm comes on the heels of one of the most bizarre incidents recorded in the Bible--1 Samuel 21-10-15 when David, running for his life from King Saul who wanted to kill him, pretended to be insane of front of the Philistine King Achish, who sent him away.
Read Psalm 34 with this incident in mind. David heaps praise on the Lord who freed him from all his fears. "Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him! Fear the Lord, you his godly people, for those who fear him will have all they need. Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry, but those who trust in the Lord will lack no good thing." vv.8-10
When we meditate on God's Word, take it to heart, and apply it, we learn to trust and respect (fear) Him. He is totally deserving of our trust. "The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right; his ears are open to their cries for help...The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed...the Lord will redeem those who serve him. No one who takes refuge in him will be condemned." vv.15-22
I hope this psalm will be a comfort to you today and whenever you need such a reminder!
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